Fish and chips
When cooked correctly, these bubbly battered morsels are a true gastronomic delight that tantalise taste buds wherever they appear. With an airy crispy crust around succulent flaky fish, served up with a side of fluffy yet crunchy chips, it is hard to resist.
The traditional preparation of fish and chips consists of a deep-fried fish fillet encased in a light yet robust batter, accompanied by thick-cut or ‘chunky style’ fried potatoes. In England, the usual fish used for this dish is cod, however other white-fleshed fish such as haddock, coley, pollock, and whiting are also regularly employed.
Once cooked, this scrumptious hot meal can be enjoyed in a number of ways. Sourcing your favourite condiments from the pantry to apply liberally is an excellent way to customise the experience. Tartare sauce, malt vinegar and ketchup are all well-known favourites, though some prefer a more unusual approach and opt for mayonaise, hummus or chilli sauce instead.
No matter how you enjoy it, there is no denying that fish and chips have become an international food icon. It is one of the most emblematic dishes that Britain has to offer, transcending generations and cultural boundaries. A meal that truly deserves to be fully appreciated.
Fish and chips recipes
Amazing Fish and chips recipes sourced from the web.
The origin of Fish and chips
Fish and chips, a beloved British dish that has been around for some time. The origins of this classic dish are a bit murky, with no single definitive answer to when or how it was invented. But wherever it may have came from, it's clear that fish and chips has become an integral part of the British culture and has earned its rightful place on the dining tables of millions across the isles.
The earliest record of the dish is said to come from a book written in 1861, entitled “Mark Hoyle’s Fish Shop Guide”. In this book, Mark wrote about the “specialties of the fishmongers”, which included fried fish and potatoes. However, records show that even before this, fried fish and potatoes were being sold as individual items, so it is likely that the idea of combining them together originated long before the book was published.
The availability of fried fish and potatoes in Britain can be attributed to the Jewish immigrants who settled in England during the 19th century. Amongst these immigrants was Joseph Malin, who opened his first shop in London’s East End area in 1860. Joseph sold fried fish and potatoes from his store, and although he cannot be credited with inventing the dish, it is widely believed that he played a major role in popularising it.
Aside from Joseph Malin's contribution, the concept of fish and chips would not have taken off the way it did if it weren't for the industrial revolution. This industrialisation created a working class which had less time to cook, but still needed to provide their families with nourishing meals. Fish and chips became the perfect solution - quick, cheap, and filling.
By the 1920s, fish and chips had become one of Britain's favorite dishes, and it has remained so ever since. Today, the meal is sold everywhere from shops to pubs to restaurants - a testament to how deeply embedded it is in the British culture. So, regardless of who may have invented it first, we must give credit to the ingenious minds that brought this simple yet delectable combination of flavors and textures into our lives.
Types of Fish and chips
Fish and chips, a classic British dish enjoyed by generations, is more than just fried fish and deep-fried potatoes. With a range of varieties available, there is something for everyone in this ever-popular meal.
Starting with the fish, the options are varied and numerous. From the familiar flavours of cod and haddock to the more unusual offerings such as plaice, gurnard and coley, everyone can find something that appeals to their taste. This variety has been widening recently, with new species of fish being added to the menu including pollock and hake. All these fish offer a delicious texture and flavour, delivering the perfect fishy bite.
The main accompaniment of course is the chip. Many will be familiar with the traditional crinkle cut chips but there are other options available. Hand cut chips offer a coarse texture and distinctive shape, while larger ‘chunky’ chips are ideal for those who prefer them chunkier.
For those looking for something a bit different, there are alternatives to the regular chip. One popular option is the ‘chip-shop style’ thick cut chips. These crunchy chips are created by slicing the potato into large pieces. Another option for the more daring foodie is the ‘coated’ chip. The potatoes are encased in a light crispy batter, making them delightfully crunchy and moreish.
But don’t forget the other essential element of a fish and chip meal - the sauce. Traditional offerings such as tartare sauce, malt vinegar and ketchup still reign supreme. But if you want something a bit different, why not try a dollop of chilli mayonnaise, a smoky BBQ sauce or wasabi mayonnaise. All these sauces will lend a unique flavour to your fish and chips.
The next time you’re out and about and looking for a classic meal with a twist, remember fish and chips. With the range of freshly cooked fish, chips and sauces available, it’s easy to create your own special combination.